Ursuline College Chatham Catholic Secondary School will celebrate its first-ever virtual graduation ceremony this evening at 7:00 p.m.

“Like other organizations around the world, we have had to do many things differently because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Ray Power, Principal of Ursuline College Chatham Catholic Secondary School.  “But we have planned a virtual celebration tonight that holds true to the traditions of a UCC graduation ceremony.  It will honour our students and our faith, and pay tribute to the many accomplishments of the Class of 2020.”

In addition to the convocation, tonight’s event will feature addresses to the graduates by the Adolph Estoesta, on behalf of the staff; a speech from the class valedictorian, Emma Wiltenburg; prayer; and the announcement of award and bursary recipients, in addition to remarks from Director of Education Deb Crawford and Chair of the Board John Van Heck.

Last week, graduating students attended the school to pick up their graduation gowns and caps and posed for photographs, in a process that respected social distancing and ensured the safety of students and staff.  The photos will be used as part of tonight’s celebration.  Students also had the opportunity to take the gowns and caps home, so they could pose for photos with family and friends.

“Since March, COVID-19 has meant a complete shift in the delivery of education for our students,” says Deb Crawford.  “They have had to adapt and change they way they learned.  But through all of the trials of these most unusual times they have persevered and shown resilience.  These are tremendous skills that they will carry with them into the future.”

Award and bursary recipients will receive cheques in the mail through the summer months.  Certificates and secondary school diplomas will not be available for until September. 

View the UCC Virtual Graduation Celebration, available on YouTube at 7:00 p.m. this evening.